The New York International Auto Show, held annually at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, is North America's oldest and largest auto show. Since its debut in 1900 at the original Madison Square Garden, the show has been a premier event for unveiling new vehicles and automotive innovations.
Over the years, it has showcased a diverse range of vehicles, from electric cars to luxury models, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
The 2025 edition marked its 125th anniversary, featuring world and North American debuts, including the Hyundai Palisade and Lucid Gravity SUV.
?The Los Angeles Auto Show, founded in 1907, is a premier automotive event held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Spanning over 1 million square feet, it showcases the latest in automotive innovation, including electric vehicles, hybrids, and traditional models.
The show attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, offering a platform for automakers to unveil new models and concepts. In addition to vehicle displays, the event features test drives, interactive exhibits, and industry discussions, making it a must-visit for car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
Cruisin' The Coast is the largest classic car show in the United States, transforming the Mississippi Gulf Coast into a rolling tribute to automotive history. Held annually in October, this week-long celebration spans over 400 miles of coastline, featuring thousands of classic cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles cruising along Highway 90.
With events in cities like Biloxi, Gulfport, Ocean Springs, and Pass Christian, participants enjoy cruise-ins, live music, swap meets, and celebrity appearances. The Vicari Auto Auction and a car corral offer opportunities to buy and sell vehicles, while the event's festive atmosphere includes sock hops, beach parties, and themed entertainment.
Hot Import Nights (HIN) is an electrifying fusion of automotive culture, music, and pop art, igniting cities across the globe with its high-octane energy. Originating in Southern California, HIN has evolved into the world's largest indoor/outdoor automotive lifestyle festival, captivating audiences in North America, Asia, Europe, South Africa, and Australia.
Each event showcases a dazzling array of custom cars, from sleek imports to audacious tuners, set against a backdrop of pulsating music, live performances, and vibrant pop culture displays. Attendees can immerse themselves in a dynamic atmosphere featuring interactive exhibits, influencer meet-and-greets, and the iconic Miss HIN competitions.
For one week each August, Reno transforms into a nostalgic paradise during Hot August Nights. This event celebrates the golden age of American cars, focusing on classics from the 50s, 60s, and 70s.
Boasting neon-lit casinos as the backdrop for gleaming hot rods and muscle cars cruising the streets, Hot August Nights offers a unique blend of car show and festival, with live music echoing the rock 'n' roll era, drag races, and a vibrant swap meet. Meanwhile, the event's Show-n-Shine competitions draw stunning restorations and custom builds.
The Iola Car Show, held annually in Iola, Wisconsin, is a premier automotive event that attracts over 100,000 attendees. Spanning more than 300 acres, it features approximately 2,500 show cars, 4,000 swap spaces, and 1,600 campsites, making it one of the largest car shows in the United States.
Founded in 1972 by Chet Krause, the event began as a small gathering of car enthusiasts and has since evolved into a significant showcase for classic and vintage automobiles. The show is operated by the Iola Old Car Show, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports local community service groups.
Attendees can explore a vast array of vehicles, from pre-war classics to modern restorations, and participate in various activities, including a car corral, swap meet, and themed exhibits.
Every August, Detroit's Woodward Avenue becomes a time machine on wheels during the Woodward Dream Cruise. This one-day event draws over 1.5 million people and 40,000 classic cars, making it the world's largest one-day automotive event.
This car meet features a 16-mile stretch of iconic American muscle cars, as well as hot rods and meticulously preserved classics cruising down the same street where many were first tested decades ago. The Dream Cruise isn't just a car show; it's a rolling museum of automotive history and a celebration of Detroit's rich car culture.
The Charlotte AutoFair, held twice annually at Charlotte Motor Speedway, stands as the Southeast's premier automotive event. Organized by the Hornets Nest Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), it draws over 50,000 enthusiasts each spring and fall.
Spanning more than 10,000 vendor spaces, the fair offers an extensive car corral featuring hundreds of classic and collector vehicles for sale.
Attendees can explore a vast array of automotive memorabilia, restoration parts, and tools in the expansive flea market. The event also showcases special attractions, including themed car displays, celebrity appearances, and family-friendly activities. With its rich history and diverse offerings, the Charlotte AutoFair remains a must-visit for car enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive automotive experience.?
The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association hosts numerous events across the country, but their crown jewel is the Nationals in Columbus, Ohio. Held each July, this event turns the Ohio Expo Center into a sprawling showcase of over 6,500 hot rods, custom cars, classics, muscle cars, and trucks.
The Nationals isn't just about static displays; it features autocross racing, allowing participants to put their builds to the test. With a massive swap meet, art gallery, and live entertainment, it's a complete immersion into hot rod culture. The event's "Builder's Choice" awards, selected by industry professionals, highlight the cream of the crop in custom car building.
The Syracuse Nationals is the largest car show in the Northeast, attracting over 8,000 classic vehicles and more than 80,000 attendees to the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, New York. Held annually, this event showcases a diverse array of hot rods, customs, classics, rat rods, and trucks, offering something for every automotive enthusiast.
In addition to the impressive vehicle displays, the Nationals features live music, a swap meet, a car corral, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The show also includes special attractions like the Winfield Award, awarded to the best custom car, and the Mini-Nationals Model Car Show.
With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, the Syracuse Nationals continues to be a must-visit event for car lovers across the region.
Coffee and Cars in Houston is a monthly automotive gathering that has become a staple for car enthusiasts in the area. Held every first Saturday of the month from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at POST Houston, located at 401 Franklin St, this event showcases a diverse array of vehicles, including luxury cars, exotics, JDM machines, and vintage classics.
The event is free and open to the public, offering a unique opportunity for car lovers to connect, share their passion, and enjoy a morning of automotive appreciation. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual admirer, Coffee and Cars provides a welcoming environment for all.
Monterey Car Week, culminating in the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, is the epitome of automotive elegance and luxury. This week-long celebration in August showcases some of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world against the stunning backdrop of California's Monterey Peninsula.
From historic racing cars tearing up the track at Laguna Seca to meticulously restored classics competing for top honors at Pebble Beach, the event offers a comprehensive view of automotive excellence. The Concours d'Elegance itself is considered the most prestigious event of its kind, where multi-million dollar classics are judged on their historical accuracy, technical merit, and style.
The SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show transforms Las Vegas into a gearhead's paradise every November. This trade-only event is the ultimate showcase of automotive innovation, where industry professionals unveil the latest in aftermarket parts and custom builds.
Picture halls filled with outrageously modified vehicles, from sky-high lifted trucks to sleek, futuristic concept cars. While not open to the public, SEMA's influence ripples through the entire automotive world, setting trends and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in car customization. The show's famous "SEMA Ignited" Friday night event does allow public access, offering a taste of the automotive future to eager enthusiasts
?The Chicago Auto Show is the largest and longest-running auto show in North America, first staged in 1901. Held annually at McCormick Place, the nation's largest convention center, it spans over 1 million square feet of exhibit space. This massive venue showcases a diverse array of vehicles, from electric cars to rugged trucks, attracting nearly 400,000 visitors each year.
Attendees can experience interactive exhibits, test drives, and concept cars, making it a must-visit for automotive enthusiasts. The show also hosts special events like "First Look for Charity," offering a sneak peek at the latest models while supporting local causes. With its rich history and commitment to innovation, the Chicago Auto Show continues to be a premier event in the automotive world.
Dino's Git Down is a premier automotive event held annually at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. This free two-day gathering showcases thousands of Chevrolet and GM vehicles, including trucks, cars, and restomods, attracting enthusiasts from across the country.
The event features a vibrant atmosphere with live music, vendor booths, and exciting giveaways, such as crate engines and car trailers. Participants can enjoy a relaxed environment with tailgating and picnicking, making it a family-friendly occasion.
Dino's Git Down has become a must-attend event for automotive aficionados, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate GM's legacy and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
